Johnstone's Secret Garden - idyllic apt with private garden set by the weir in the centre of Bath
4.8
Outstanding(32 Reviews)Apartment in Bath
4 guests · 2 bedrooms · 1 bath
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Includes essentialsGarden, Kitchen or Kitchenette, Internet / Wifi and more
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About this apartment rental
Key features:
• Uniquely designed apartment on two levels
• Fantastic city centre location
• Contemporary kitchen with breakfast bar
• Cosy sitting room with internet TV and dining area
• Sumptuous master bedroom with 6' super-king double bed, sitting area river views
• Flexible second bedroom with zip&link beds for 2 singles or a superking and river views
• Fabulous large bathroom
• Central heating throughout
• Outdoor seating area and large beautiful walled garden with rear exit to the Pulteney Weir and maze
• Just a short walk to the Abbey and Bath's many attractions
• 10 minutes walk to railway station
William Johnstone gave his name to this street as he developed what was to become the world famous architectural heritage of the Pulteney Estate. Built at the end of the 18th century to designs by architect Thomas Baldwin, Johnstone Street is the epitome of classical Palladian architecture. Johnstone was reputedly the wealthiest man in Great Britain and in 1767 he became Sir William Pulteney, sharing the name and fortune of his wife, Frances Pulteney.
Houses such as this were built for people to come from their country estates to enjoy the attractions and entertainments of Bath. They would bring a small retinue of staff and the properties would be full of life and entertainment. This apartment has been created in what would have been the working hub of the Georgian household.
Johnstone's Secret Garden is on the lower ground floor and garden levels of this elegant house. Entered via the main entrance to the building, it has its own entrance off the ground floor communal hallway and down a flight of steps to the main hallway with a design inspired by travel. The walls here are hung with maps, sledges, walking sticks and ice picks suggestive of world travels.
Off this central hallway are two bedrooms and a sumptuous bathroom. With three lighting levels to choose from the roll top bath is perfect for a sumptuous soak after a busy day walking and shopping before a night out in this amazing city.
The stunning master bedroom contains a huge 6' Superking double bed. The room also has ample space for two ‘Dorset stripe' tub chairs and table in front of a ‘living flame' gas fire - perfect for morning coffee or a ‘finale' before bed. In the morning the original shutters can be opened to reveal views of the river Avon and Pulteney Weir and distant glimpses of Beechen Cliff.
The second bedroom shares this delightful aspect and contains two comfortable single beds - but, by arrangement, these ‘Zip&Link' beds can be repositioned and connected together to make another 6' Superking double bed.
A further flight of steps leads down to the garden level with its thick stone walls all painted a gleaming white. There is a sleek modern kitchen and a breakfast bar for two - perfect for an intimate chat over a glass of wine while dinner is being prepared - and a generous larder with small freezer.
Adjacent is the cosy sitting room with antique old Welsh furniture and a striking display of blue and white china. Here there is a comfortable armchair, sofa for 2 and an easy chair. Relax in front of the WiFi TV. There is also a dining area with dropleaf table and four matching ‘William IV' dining chairs. A door opens to the laundry whilst another opens to the cleaning and boiler cupboard.
Two arched glazed doors lead from this level onto the stunning walled garden with lawn, clipped boxed hedges and planted areas as well as a large outdoor table with six chairs. This area of the green catches the afternoon and evening sunshine so is perfect for those alfresco occasions. A secret lockable gate leads to the famous ‘Beazer Maze' and the riverside in the centre of the city.
Given the secret nature of this fabulous apartment it's hard to believe that you are in the centre of a bustling city and only a short walk away from Bath's world famous historic sites, shops, bars and restaurants.
The property is just a 10 minute level walk to the Bath Spa mainline train as well as bus and coach stations.
• Uniquely designed apartment on two levels
• Fantastic city centre location
• Contemporary kitchen with breakfast bar
• Cosy sitting room with internet TV and dining area
• Sumptuous master bedroom with 6' super-king double bed, sitting area river views
• Flexible second bedroom with zip&link beds for 2 singles or a superking and river views
• Fabulous large bathroom
• Central heating throughout
• Outdoor seating area and large beautiful walled garden with rear exit to the Pulteney Weir and maze
• Just a short walk to the Abbey and Bath's many attractions
• 10 minutes walk to railway station
William Johnstone gave his name to this street as he developed what was to become the world famous architectural heritage of the Pulteney Estate. Built at the end of the 18th century to designs by architect Thomas Baldwin, Johnstone Street is the epitome of classical Palladian architecture. Johnstone was reputedly the wealthiest man in Great Britain and in 1767 he became Sir William Pulteney, sharing the name and fortune of his wife, Frances Pulteney.
Houses such as this were built for people to come from their country estates to enjoy the attractions and entertainments of Bath. They would bring a small retinue of staff and the properties would be full of life and entertainment. This apartment has been created in what would have been the working hub of the Georgian household.
Johnstone's Secret Garden is on the lower ground floor and garden levels of this elegant house. Entered via the main entrance to the building, it has its own entrance off the ground floor communal hallway and down a flight of steps to the main hallway with a design inspired by travel. The walls here are hung with maps, sledges, walking sticks and ice picks suggestive of world travels.
Off this central hallway are two bedrooms and a sumptuous bathroom. With three lighting levels to choose from the roll top bath is perfect for a sumptuous soak after a busy day walking and shopping before a night out in this amazing city.
The stunning master bedroom contains a huge 6' Superking double bed. The room also has ample space for two ‘Dorset stripe' tub chairs and table in front of a ‘living flame' gas fire - perfect for morning coffee or a ‘finale' before bed. In the morning the original shutters can be opened to reveal views of the river Avon and Pulteney Weir and distant glimpses of Beechen Cliff.
The second bedroom shares this delightful aspect and contains two comfortable single beds - but, by arrangement, these ‘Zip&Link' beds can be repositioned and connected together to make another 6' Superking double bed.
A further flight of steps leads down to the garden level with its thick stone walls all painted a gleaming white. There is a sleek modern kitchen and a breakfast bar for two - perfect for an intimate chat over a glass of wine while dinner is being prepared - and a generous larder with small freezer.
Adjacent is the cosy sitting room with antique old Welsh furniture and a striking display of blue and white china. Here there is a comfortable armchair, sofa for 2 and an easy chair. Relax in front of the WiFi TV. There is also a dining area with dropleaf table and four matching ‘William IV' dining chairs. A door opens to the laundry whilst another opens to the cleaning and boiler cupboard.
Two arched glazed doors lead from this level onto the stunning walled garden with lawn, clipped boxed hedges and planted areas as well as a large outdoor table with six chairs. This area of the green catches the afternoon and evening sunshine so is perfect for those alfresco occasions. A secret lockable gate leads to the famous ‘Beazer Maze' and the riverside in the centre of the city.
Given the secret nature of this fabulous apartment it's hard to believe that you are in the centre of a bustling city and only a short walk away from Bath's world famous historic sites, shops, bars and restaurants.
The property is just a 10 minute level walk to the Bath Spa mainline train as well as bus and coach stations.
Amenities
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Laundry
Dishwasher
TV
Garden
Map of Bath
Reviews
4.8
Outstanding(32 Reviews)4.8
We truly loved our stay at Johnstone's Secret Garden! The home was spacious and comfortable, and the location was perfect. It was a short walk to restaurants, shopping, and attractions. The property managers were easy to reach, friendly, and answered all our questions. I highly recommend staying here.
4.8
This property is just off the beaten path, providing peace and quiet, but only a few minute's walk to the heart of Bath. The secret garden is truly that...a beautiful, small yard with a gate that allows you to access the Avon and surrounding parks. Note that you must be comfortable with stairs if you wish to stay here. That said, if you for Bath with a guide, you will find this multi-level layout to be the norm in this city. The small kitchen worked well, the bed was comfortable, and the bathroom was totally functional. This is a rustic, beautiful property!
4.8
Cozy, charming, and clean, unbelievably well located to all of Bath’s attractions, and yet quiet . Feels like you’re in another world when you are inside. Highly recommend.
4.8
Johnstone's Secret Garden is aptly named, but the name only begins to tell the enchanting story of this magical oasis. Ideally situated overlooking its private garden and the weir below Pulteney Bridge and within easy walking access to all of Bath, the two story elegant historic lodgings are wonderfully and resourcefully appointed. A delightful place to stay for three days, or much more.
4.8
Thoroughly enjoyed the property and garden access. Perfect location and close to nice restaurants. Would stay again!
4.8
4 Friends stayed at this property and it was exactly as advertised and location to everything was excellent.
Just a tiny note, 4 friends but only 3 places to sit in the lounge needs another armchair.
4.8
We couldn’t imagine a better location in Bath, with the feeling that we’d been given a special charmed key to the city. Beautifully appointed, eccentric and charming, with a private garden to luxuriate in, or just savor visually. And the management gives you almost more information than you can absorb. We’ll recommend this place to everyone we know for sure.
4.8
Johnstone Secret Garden was one of the most charming and unique places we've ever stayed at. It really lives up to its name and description as "idyllic" and a "private secret garden." We enjoyed having our meals out in the lovely garden. Our stay at Johnstone Secret Garden was a special treat and a rare find.
4.8
We so enjoyed our stay in the secret garden! It was perfect for our family of four (older teens) and the location could not be beat. Steps to the Pultaney Bridge; the Parade Grounds, river boat tours, and access to the running path along the River Avon were just outside the back yard through the secret garden door; easy walk into Central Bath; short walk to Holborne Museum (my daughter is a huge Bridgerton fan and got a kick out of that); easy access to the Skyline walk. Great communication with Bath Holiday Rentals; Bartosz met us at the property so we could drop our luggage until the unit was ready. He was friendly and helpful and gave us a great dinner recommendation (Ponte Vecchio right next door out the back - amazing Italian food!). We had a wonderful time and were sad to leave.
4.8
We had a family reunion of relatives from England, Wales, Canada and US. We brought food in and entertained in the family room off the garden. We had planned to use the large garden table but there were many wasps so we had to entertain inside. The garden was nice but there could have been some nice flowers planted. A bit overgrown with weeds. Other than that, a nice stay. For older guests they should know about all the stairs.
4.8
We had a family reunion of relatives from England, Wales, Canada and US. We brought food in and entertained in the family room off the garden. We had planned to use the large garden table but there were many wasps so we had to entertain inside. The garden was nice but there could have been some nice flowers planted. A bit overgrown with weeds. Other than that, a nice stay. For older guests they should know about all the stairs.
4.8
Thank you Secret Garden appt at Bath for the wonderful time in Bath. The apartment was implacable and centrally located that allowed us to walk to downtown and enjoyed restaurants and shopping. The weather was beautiful and we were able to enjoy a few meals in the Garden. The secret garden has a second door that leads to the river and it's ideal for a walk in the afternoon. We definitely staying here again! Highly recommended! Staff was very nice and all worked out as planned.
4.8
The location and facilities at the property were fantastic, but the bathroom in particular wasnt very clean mainly the bath and shower.
4.8
This home is in a perfect location to experience Bath. Walking to everything is very easy. The house is cute and clean; it's a great way to relax after walking all day. The little garden and "secret" gate make it extra special.
4.8
Perfect for visiting Bath.
4.8
We loved the feel of the apartment and the location was excellent. It was an easy walk to all the places we wanted to visit in Bath-the Roman Baths, the Abbey, many restaurants, shopping, and the train station.
Parking is tight in the area and the materials provided some suggestions. We were able to book a private parking location with Just Park that was a few minutes walk. I am very glad we arranged parking in advance.
As others have mentioned, there are stairs involved in accessing the apartment, which is itself on two levels.
This was a great find and we would stay again if ever in the area in the future.
4.8
Excellent location, incredible property. A lot of stairs to negotiate but that is normal for a property of this age. We had trouble identifying which unit was ours once we entered the property (there are 4 units). The dishes in the dishwasher were dirty on arrival but that is a minor issue, the previous guest must not have started the appliance. Overall an amazing experience, we loved the ease of walking to everything and the welcome guide had great restaurant recommendations. We even got to watch a little of a rubgy match since the location of this unit is next to the rugby field. Could not have had a better time. Thank you
4.8
Johnstone's secret garden is a gem. It is convenient to everything and the unit has tremendous charm. I only wish the weather had been a bit less wet so we could have enjoyed more of the beautiful garden.
4.8
The apartment was spacious, beautifully appointed and wonderfully relaxing. The bedrooms were large, full of light and had lovely views. The kitchen was well equipped and the living room comfortable.
Would go back tomorrow and stay forever!
4.8
Great location
4.8
Great location annd communication. The home exactly like the photos.
4.8
It would have been great to have been given some history of the property. Lovely old property in good part of town. We were a bit surprised by the number of stairs which we had not expected. Beds very comfortable. Would have been nice to have one more easy chair in the lounge.
4.8
We liked the property very much, (living up to the description)and the location was excellent, we did think taking out the bath/shower and replacing with walk in shower would be a good improvement. We look forward to returning.
4.8
So good we will stay again when we return. Everything is so close by and the back gate leads to the promenade by the river! Absolutely gorgeous!
4.8
Our cozy flat was filled with antiques and charming touches. Lots of stairs to get from the street level to the apartment level. Well appointed. Could walk to everything in just a few minutes. I would return.
4.8
Received regular updates prior to arrival with great info.
We arrived late at night and there was some confusion on how to get into the apartment and we couldn’t get a hold of anyone but finally figured things out.
4.8
Johnstone's Secret Garden home was as wonderful as it appears in the pictures online. The home had everything we needed for an extended stay in Bath. We were lucky enough to enjoy this home and city for the month of July! Nicholas and Clare were easy and responsive to all our needs/requests. The location was perfect for exploring Bath, Stonehenge, and multiple villages within a short train or bus ride away.
The home had a kitchen stocked for us to be able to have meals at home often. The beds were comfortable and the in-home washer allowed us to pack fewer rounds of clothing.
The garden, the maze, and the river directly out the back living/kitchen area were what put this apartment over the top!! We were able to have meals in the garden and many evenings with wine on a picnic blanket by the weir.
I highly recommend Johnstone's Secret Garden for your getaway :)
4.8
Very lovely flat within walking distance of restaurants, shops and historic sites. The garden was an amazing extra touch. Host was very responsive! Definitely recommend.
4.8
Beautiful getaway
We stayed at this lovely spot with our 2 teenagers. We loved being able to eat meals out in the beautiful garden and so appreciated the "secret door" which gave us access to Beazer Maze and the Pultney. It was quiet and yet a short walk to everything. The master bedroom is truly grand and we loved our "room with a view." We look forward to returning again someday.
4.8
Perfect location
Family of four how do wonderful stay. Fantastic location. Great that one of the bedrooms had two beds so the kids could sleep separately. Clean and comfortable. Note that there are stairs if that is an issue for you. We arranged parking at the garage near the train station which was pretty convenient once we figured it out. Dropped off our bags, parked at the train station and White less than five minutes back. All in all a wonderful stay. I highly recommend.
FAQs
How much does this apartment cost compared to others in Bath?
The average price for a rental in Bath is £155 per night. This rental is £57 above the average.
Is parking included with this apartment?
Parking is not specified as an available amenity at Johnstone's Secret Garden - idyllic apt with private garden set by the weir in the centre of Bath. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this apartment?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this apartment. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is Johnstone's Secret Garden - idyllic apt with private garden set by the weir in the centre of Bath pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this apartment is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Johnstone's Secret Garden - idyllic apt with private garden set by the weir in the centre of Bath?
We found 6 amenities for this rental. This includes kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, laundry, dishwasher, and tv.
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